Amtrak Train Travel for First Timers

at02/04/2017

I first rode with Amtrak in December of 2015 for my Christmas inNew York City solo trip, and these tips on Amtrak Train Travel definitely came in handy for a 1st timer like me.

Since then I’ve ridden the train for several trips and although I love to fly, I really like the convenience of stepping on the train, heading straight to my seat, and skipping the security debacle that airports ensue.

Amtrak Train Travel…For First Timers!!

“All Aboard!!”

Upon boarding the train I was given a slip of paper with my designated seat row and number on it…I notice they do this when the train is already filling up.

When I boarded the train atPenn Stationfor the trip home it was first-come, first-serve seats and I was very pleased to find a window seat to enjoy the view on the ride home. Once you find your seat there is an overhead rack for any extra bags you may have brought.

Dining & Drinks:

The short distance trains have a Cafe Car offering carry-out food like sandwiches, snacks, and beverages.

For medium distance trains, the Cafe Car is available as well as a Lounge car that serves up basically the same items as the Cafe Car but offers more seating. The long-distance trains offer a full-service Dining Car with hot meals 3 times daily. Reservations are suggested in advance for the Dining Car.

I have seen one that had a full sink and countertop space on the train fromClemson, SCtoNew York Cityso they do vary as far as the inside, but they are all basically this size right here.

I would suggest holding onto that handrail…

the train ride can get a little bumpy…just sayin’.

Amtrak Train Travel Tips:

The Amtrak App is extremely useful in looking up delays, dining menus, or answering any other questions you may have while in transit.Click hereto be taken directly to the Official Amtrak App Download Page.

Claim Your FREE Checklist Today!!

Share the Fun with Your Friends!!

Related

8 Comments

Linda Tann

My siblings and I are thinking of taking Amtrak from Chicago to San Francisco. How do we plan the trip so we don’t miss any of the gorgeous scenery out West? Thanks for any suggestions or recommendations.

17 . Feb . 2018

Vivacious Views

That one is a nice long trip so you will have plenty of sites to see! The link below has a perfect map to follow the route. I would recommend heading to the Sightseer Cafe Car…this lounge car has panoramic windows to take in the stunning views! I hope you guys have a safe and fun adventure to San Fran!!https://www.amtrak.com/california-zephyr-train

17 . Feb . 2018

Connie

I’m so glad I found you. My 3 daughters and I are taking the Amtrak Auto train to Florida on Saturday!! This train you take your car with you!! Great info!! And great comment about the motion sickness (my daughter has it) Thanks for the great info!!

15 . Feb . 2017

vivaciousviewsblog@yahoo.com

Thank You!! I hope you guys had a safe and enjoyable trip!!! 🙂
(sorry for the delayed response your comment was trapped in my spam folder)

09 . Mar . 2017

Stacey

Pack something for motion sickness if you’ve never done a long train ride before. I’m fine on long car trips, but the constant swaying of the train really got to me. And you don’t get rest stops on the train like you do the car. I was much more prepared (and less sick) on the ride back home!

14 . Feb . 2017

vivaciousviewsblog@yahoo.com

Great tips Stacey!! I definitely take Dramamine about 30 minutes before I travel…mostly as a precaution. I also like to walk to the dining/observation cars during the train ride because, like you said, there really aren’t any “rest stops” during the ride. Glad you had a great trip home!! 🙂

14 . Feb . 2017

lablondevita

Well, the scenery is great❤

06 . Feb . 2017

vivaciousviewsblog@yahoo.com

It really is…I can’t wait to see the scenery on the EuroRail when I visit Europe!! I bet it’s spectacular!

Follow & Like :)

Twitter

Facebook

About Vivacious Views

Vivacious Views is written by Britt, a Freelance Travel Writer and Disney Blogger from South Carolina. She has just returned from an April Trip to New York City and her 10th Trip to Disney World last May!! Britt is headed back to Disney World to celebrate the Halloween Festivities this October so be sure to Subscribe to Follow the Adventure!!